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Expanding beyond individualism: Engaging critical perspectives on occupation
Alison J Gerlach1, Gail Teachman2, Debbie Laliberte-Rudman3
1a National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health , University of Northern British Columbia , Prince George , BC , Canada.
Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy
|May 25, 2017
Summary
Individualistic views of occupation can worsen inequities in occupational therapy. Critical perspectives reveal how societal factors shape occupational engagement, promoting more equitable practices and research.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Occupational Science
- Critical Theory
Background:
- Individualistic perspectives on occupation are misaligned with socially responsive research and practice.
- Over-reliance on individualistic views in occupational therapy perpetuates occupational inequities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critique individualistic analyses of occupation.
- To demonstrate how critical theoretical perspectives illuminate structural influences on occupational possibilities and engagement.
Main Methods:
- Employed a critically reflexive approach.
- Analyzed three distinct qualitative research studies.
- Examined the potential of critical theorizing to move beyond individualistic analyses.
Main Results:
- Highlighted the significance of socio-historical and political contexts in occupation.
- Demonstrated the value of critical perspectives for socially responsive occupational therapy.
Conclusions:
- Expanding beyond individualistic analyses advances research and practice.
- Critical perspectives address socio-political mediators of occupational engagement and equity.
Keywords:
Critical theoryhealth equityneoliberalismoccupational scienceoccupational therapysocial justiceMore Related Videos
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